During the winter months, your furnace will be running and windows will be shut. So you need to install carbon monoxide detectors near your bedrooms.
Be cautious when using portable heaters. Place them three feet away from anything flammable. Never leave them running when you are gone or asleep. Don’t let children or pets around the heaters, and never dry clothing or mittens on heaters.
Make the area around your furnace clear, so it has room for good air circulation. Keep flammable materials, such as paints, paint thinners, fuels, solvents, clothing, and boxes away from the furnace.
Never heat a room with a gas range or an open oven door. The un-vented products of combustion can quickly build to toxic levels.
In cold climates, close your drapery and shades at night and open them during the day.
Installing storm windows can also decrease your heat loss by up to 50%. Clear plastic tacked across your windows works well also.
Have your furnace serviced once a year by a qualified heating contractor.
Consider installing a high-energy efficient furnace, air conditioner, or appliances. A new energy efficient furnace can save up to 30% in energy costs and provide for a pay back of its costs in just a few years. Many banks have energy loans available with low interest rates. Refer to the following link for Energy Loan Information http://www.neo.ne.gov/loan/index.html
Change or clean furnace filters every 30 days, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Weather strip and caulk windows and doors to keep the cold out and the heat in.
Seal any cracks or holes in the foundation of your house to prevent any cold air from entering your home.
Turn your thermostat down to 68 degrees F for a comfortable temperature when you are awake. Every degree that you lower your thermostat could save you up to 3% on your heating bill. Lower the thermostat by 5 degrees when asleep. (warmer temperatures are recommended for homes with the ill, elderly, or infants.)
An Automated Thermostat will provide for automatic set back and set up
of thermostat temperature.
Use fireplaces and wood stoves wisely, an open damper, when not in use, can be like leaving a window wide open.
Consider reversing ceiling fans to push down warm air without creating a draft.
Set your thermostat at 60 degrees F when no one is home.
Close vents and doors in unused rooms, that do not have water lines.
Consider adding attic or side wall insulation, one of the fastest forms
of providing energy savings.
Lower the temperature on your hot water heater.
Consider using a humidifier to add moisture to your home, as moister air
retains heat better than dry air.
